EL MONTE – El Monte Union High School District celebrated the completion of Fernando R. Ledesma High School’s (FRLHS) Multipurpose Building and Gymnasium with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 7, with Ledesma himself in attendance to witness the facility’s new performance space, fitness areas, outdoor classrooms and more.

Fernando Robert Ledesma, whom the school was named after in 2005 in recognition of his four decades of service to “at-promise” students, was joined by his family, community members, District and school officials, City Council members and representatives of local elected officials to commemorate the completion of the first major construction project in the District’s sweeping modernization program, funded by Measures D & HS.

“Today feels like a dream come true as this project has been years in the making,” Ledesma said. “I feel extremely blessed and honored to be here to enjoy this momentous moment for our students and be surrounded by my beautiful family and loved ones.”

The ceremony included the pledge of allegiance led by FRLHS senior Jose Velazquez, honorary speeches, a presentation of the school’s history, walkthrough tours of the facilities and a spectacular end-of-the-night musical performance by FRLHS senior and student advisory council member Kimberly Lara.

The FRLHS Multipurpose Building and Gymnasium promotes healthy living, collaboration and sustainability, and will serve as a gathering place for health and wellness instruction, physical fitness activities, athletic events, performances and other functions. The site houses a performance space with grandstand seating, basketball court, fitness/weight room, an outdoor weightlifting area, snack bar, concession and lobby areas, restrooms, classrooms and a learning garden.

“In order to continue to grow and evolve, students need to have the support of those around them who are willing to go the extra mile to meet their needs. There are many people who came together to contribute to this project and school and we appreciate you,” FRLHS Principal Freddy Arteaga said. “I want to sincerely thank our community, families, the District, project partners and FRLHS staff for helping to turn our vision and goals into a reality for our students.”

The modernization program is primarily funded by Measure HS, a $190 million facilities bond approved by voters in October 2021, and other funding sources including Measure D.

“Drawing inspiration from the rich history of the community of El Monte and the District’s dedication to health and well-being, the impact this project will have on our students is profound,” Superintendent Dr. Edward Zuniga said. “This beautiful facility will provide a strong foundation for them as they strive to reach their goals – and is part of our commitment to support our students, no matter what path they choose. Thank you to our Board of Trustees and community members for their ongoing support. What a proud moment to be a Mustang.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

EMUHSD_FRLHS MULTIPURPOSE BUILDING_1: El Monte Union High School District community and distinguished guests gather to commemorate the completion of Fernando R. Ledesma High School’s new Multipurpose Building and Gymnasium during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 7.

EMUHSD_FRLHS MULTIPURPOSE BUILDING_2: Fernando Ledesma (middle left) celebrates the grand opening of the new Multipurpose Building and Gymnasium at his namesake school with his grandson Samuel Holt (left), granddaughter Victoria Bartolotti (front center), FRLHS Independent Study teacher and daughter Lisa Holt (middle right) and retired FRLHS Peer Educator and daughter Helen Bartolotti (right) during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 7.

EMUHSD_FRLHS MULTIPURPOSE BUILDING_3: Fernando R. Ledesma High School Principal Freddy Arteaga and students celebrate the completion of the school’s new Multipurpose Building and Gymnasium with fresh pozole and live music during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 7.